The Future of Consumerist

Over the last twelve years, Consumerist has been a steadfast proponent and voice on behalf of consumers, from exposing shady practices by secretive cable companies to pushing for action against dodgy payday lenders. Now, we’re joining forces with Consumer Reports, our parent organization, to cultivate the next generation of consumer advocacy.

Stay tuned as Consumerist’s current and future content finds its home as a part of the Consumer Reports brand. In the meantime, you can access existing Consumerist content below, and we encourage you to visit Consumer Reports to read the latest consumer news.

Would a bag of pretzels or a can of soda placate you if your flight were delayed for two hours? American Airlines hopes that’s all it’ll take.

The carrier recently began testing a “Gateside Amenities” plan that aims to calm travelers whose flights are delayed by offering them free snacks and drinks, Bloomberg reports.

The plan, announced via an employee newsletter on Thursday, will provide treats and drinks at the gate when weather or operational issues delay a flight for two hours or more.

If the delay stretches beyond three hours, the airline will provide complimentary sandwiches to waiting travelers.

Rather than just give travelers meal vouchers, American — which recently brought back snacks in coach — believes that offering delayed passengers sustenance at the gate will keep them in the vicinity where they can be easily updated on departure information.

The Gateside Amenities service is currently being tested at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, and will expand to Los Angeles International Airport later this month, Bloomberg reports.

If tests of the plan goes smoothly, it could be implemented across all American routes later this year, the company says.